McConnell: no real deficit deal until Obama is gone
By
Corbett B. Daly, Brian Montopoli
The Senate's top Republican said Tuesday that he did not see a way for Republicans and Democrats to come to agreement on meaningful deficit reduction as long as President Obama remains in office.
"After years of discussions and months of negotiations, I have little question that as long as this president is in the Oval Office, a real solution is probably unattainable," Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said in remarks on the Senate floor.
The remarks come as negotiations between Republicans and Democrats intensify on long-term deficit reduction ahead of a looming deadline on how much the United States can legally borrow.
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and many economists have warned of economic catastrophe if the $14.3 trillion debt ceiling is not raised before August 2.
And lawmakers from both parties want to use the threat of that deadline to work out a broader package on long-term deficit reduction. Republicans are looking to cut trillions of dollars in federal spending, while Democrats are pushing for a more "balanced approach," which would include both spending cuts and higher revenue to the government.
McConnell suggested in his remarks that the debt ceiling will still be raised, but without a broader deal on long-term deficit reduction.
"The president has presented us with three choices: smoke and mirrors, tax hikes, or default. Republicans choose none of the above. I had hoped to do good, but I refuse to do harm. So Republicans will choose a path that actually reflects the will of the people, which is to do the responsible thing and ensure that the government doesn't default on its obligations," he said.
The Senate Republican leader is not the only member of his party ratcheting up the rhetoric Tuesday. Speaking of Mr. Obama, House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio said "the debt limit increase is his problem."
"And I think it's time for him to lead by putting his plan on the table," he continued. "Something that the Congress can pass."
Republicans have walked away from negotiations led by Mr. Obama to reach a $4 trillion deficit reduction deal over ten years, saying a smaller deal -- for perhaps $2 trillion -- is more feasible.
McConnell: no real deficit deal until Obama is gone - Political Hotsheet - CBS News